Automotive Axle and Propeller Shaft Market Size - By Type (Axle, Propeller Shaft), By Vehicle Type (Passenger Vehicles, Light Commercial Vehicles, Heavy Commercial Vehicles), By Material (Alloy, Carbon Fiber), By Sales Channel (OEM, Aftermarket) & Forecast, 2024 - 2032

Automotive Axle and Propeller Shaft Market Size

Automotive Axle and Propeller Shaft Market size was valued at USD 31.1 billion in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 4% between 2024 and 2032.  The growth of market can be attributed to the continuous growth in global vehicle production and sales across the globe. The growing vehicle sales drives demand for axles and propeller shafts. As more vehicles are manufactured and sold, the need for reliable and efficient drivetrain components increases.
 

Furthermore, innovations in materials and manufacturing processes lead to the development of lighter, stronger, and more efficient axles and propeller shafts. Advanced materials like high-strength steel and carbon fiber composites help reduce vehicle weight, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance overall performance, thus driving market growth. Also, governments across the globe are imposing stricter emission standards and fuel efficiency regulations to combat environmental pollution. These regulations push manufacturers to develop more efficient and lightweight components, including axles and propeller shafts. Lighter and more efficient axles and propeller shafts contribute to lower overall vehicle weight and improved fuel efficiency, helping automakers meet regulatory requirements.

The automotive axle and propeller shaft market faces several restraints hindering its full potential.  Economic instability in key markets can lead to fluctuations in vehicle sales, directly impacting the demand for automotive components, including axles and propeller shafts. Also, variations in exchange rates can affect the profitability of manufacturers operating in multiple regions, potentially leading to cost-cutting measures that impact product quality or innovation. Furthermore, dependence on a global supply chain can expose manufacturers to risks such as political instability, trade disputes, and natural disasters that disrupt the supply of raw materials and components.
 

Automotive Axle and Propeller Shaft Market Trends

The automotive axle and propeller shaft industry is witnessing significant trends driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and regulatory developments. The transition from combustion engine vehicles to electric & hybrid vehicles is reshaping this market. The new-age electric and hybrid vehicles require specialized axles and propeller shafts to suit their configurations. Manufacturers are increasingly focused on axles and propeller shafts that are lightweight and high strength without compromising durability. Modern axles and propeller shafts are being equipped with sensors and IoT technologies, enabling real-time performance monitoring, maintenance needs prediction, and enhanced vehicle safety, thereby reducing downtime and operational costs.
 

Also, the integration of sensors and IoT technologies into axles and propeller shafts enables real-time monitoring of performance and predictive maintenance, enhancing vehicle reliability and reducing downtime. Techniques such as 3D printing, precision forging, and robotic automation are improving the quality, consistency, and cost-efficiency of manufacturing axles and propeller shafts. Furthermore, there is a growing demand for customized axle and propeller shaft solutions tailored to specific vehicle models and applications, particularly in high-performance and luxury vehicles. Modular axle and propeller shaft designs allow for easier assembly, maintenance, and replacement, providing flexibility and reducing production costs.
 

Automotive Axle and Propeller Shaft Market Analysis

Based on sales channel, the market is segmented into OEM and aftermarket. The OEM segment held a market share of over 70% in 2023 and is expected to cross over USD 30 billion by 2032. The continuous rise in the production of passenger cars and commercial vehicles globally drives the demand for axles and propeller shafts directly from OEMs. OEMs are incorporating advanced technologies such as lightweight materials and integrated sensors into axles and propeller shafts to meet efficiency and performance standards. Also, the growing market for premium and luxury vehicles, which require advanced and high-performance axles and propeller shafts, is a significant driver for OEM sales.
 

Based on vehicle, the market is segmented into passenger cars, LCVs and HCVs. The passenger cars segment held a market share of around 61% in 2023. The growth of the passenger cars segment can be attributed to the rise in production and sales of passenger cars globally, especially in emerging markets. The economic growth and rising disposable incomes contribute to higher car ownership rates, boosting market demand. Furthermore, governments are imposing stricter emission standards, pushing manufacturers to develop more efficient and lightweight components for passenger cars. Regulatory pressure to improve fuel efficiency drives the demand for advanced axles and propeller shafts.
 

Asia Pacific held a major market share of over 40% in automotive axle and propeller shaft market in 2023.  Rapid economic development and urbanization in countries like China, India, and Southeast Asia are leading to increased vehicle ownership and production, driving demand for automotive axles and propeller shafts. Expanding middle-class populations and rising disposable incomes are boosting the sales of both passenger cars and LCVs.
 

Furthermore, Asia Pacific is a major hub for automotive manufacturing, with significant investments from global OEMs and local manufacturers. This results in high demand for axles and propeller shafts. The presence of key automotive manufacturers and extensive production facilities in the region supports automotive axle & propeller shaft market growth.
 

The U.S. has one of the highest vehicle ownership rates in the world, driving sustained demand for automotive components, including axles and propeller shafts. The U.S. automotive industry is a leader in technological innovation, with significant investments in advanced materials, smart components, and electric vehicle technologies. The trend towards electric and autonomous vehicles drives the need for specialized axles and propeller shafts.
 

Europe has some of the strictest emission and fuel efficiency standards globally, driving the need for lightweight and efficient axles and propeller shafts. Regulations promoting the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles further boost demand for specialized components. Furthermore, European consumers and governments prioritize sustainability, leading to increased demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient automotive components.
 

Automotive Axle and Propeller Shaft Market Share

Cummins Inc. and GKN Automotive held a major market share of over 5% in the automotive axle and propeller shaft industry. Cummins Inc. is actively expanding its portfolio to cater to the growing market for electric and hybrid vehicles. This involves developing specialized components that meet the unique requirements of these vehicles, such as high torque and different drivetrain configurations. Strategic partnerships and acquisitions in the electric vehicle sector to strengthen their market position.
 

GKN Automotive focuses on maintaining its position as a technological leader by investing heavily in R&D. This includes developing cutting-edge technologies for axles and propeller shafts that enhance vehicle performance and efficiency. The company focuses on innovating in the field of electric and hybrid vehicles by creating advanced eDrive systems and components tailored to these vehicles.
 

Automotive Axle and Propeller Shaft Market Companies

Key companies operating in the automotive axle and propeller shaft industry are:

• American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM)
• Automotive Axles Limited
• Cummins Inc.
• Dana Incorporated
• GKN Automotive
• Hyundai WIA Corporation
• JTEKT Corporation
• Mark Williams Enterprises Inc.
• Schaeffler Group
• ZF Friedrichshafen AG
   

Automotive Axle and Propeller Shaft Industry News

• In June 2024, Dorman Products, Inc. launched a new drive shaft manufacturing facility in Virginia Beach, VA (USA). The facility joins existing Dorman sites in Reno, NV and Portland, TN that also design, manufacture and distribute the company’s 3,600+ precision steel and aluminum driveshafts and related driveline components in North America.
   
• In December 2023, American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM) showcased its best-in-class Electric Drive Unit (EDU) technology for both hybrid and fully electric powertrains. AAM also displayed its next generation of front and rear e-Beam axles integrating its three-in-one e-Drive technology.
   

The automotive axle and propeller shaft market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Billion) and shipments (Units) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Axle
  • Live axle
  • Dead axle
  • Tandem axle
• Propeller shaft
  • Single piece propeller shaft
  • Multi piece propeller shaft

Market, By Vehicle Type

• Passenger vehicles
• Light commercial vehicles
• Heavy commercial vehicles

Market, By Material

• Alloy
• Carbon fiber

Market, By Sales Channel

• OEM
• Aftermarket

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
  • Rest of Asia Pacific 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America
• MEA
  • South Africa
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Rest of MEA